Fried Clams
Crispy, tender fried clams with a seasoned cracker meal coating, perfect as an appetizer or seafood entrée for those who enjoy classic American flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Beat the egg in a small bowl and add milk.
- In a separate bowl, mix flour with salt, pepper, and paprika.
- Put the shucked soft shell clams into the cracker meal for coating.
- Dip the clams into the egg mixture, then dredge in the cracker meal mixture.
- Heat Crisco shortening or oil in a deep fryer or large skillet until hot.
- Deep fry the coated clams until golden brown and crispy, about 2-3 minutes per batch.
- Drain on paper towels and serve hot.
Tips & Substitutions
For an extra crunch, consider adding a tablespoon of cornmeal to the cracker meal mix. If you don’t have cracker meal, crushed saltines or panko breadcrumbs work well as substitutes. Adjust the seasoning to your taste; a sprinkle of cayenne can add a nice kick. Ensure the oil is hot enough before frying to achieve that perfect crispy texture.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the fried clams hot with a side of tartar sauce or a squeeze of lemon for added flavor. They pair beautifully with a refreshing coleslaw or crispy French fries. For a delightful meal, consider serving with Grandma Cole'S Creamed Oysters or alongside a seafood platter featuring shrimp and crab.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover fried clams in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10 minutes to restore their crispiness. Avoid microwaving as it can make them soggy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Fried Clams contains roughly 803 calories, with 7g protein, 57g carbohydrates, and 61g fat. It is a good source of iron (17% of the Daily Value) and protein (14% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 523mg per serving (23% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen clams for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen clams, but be sure to thaw and drain them thoroughly before coating and frying. This ensures a better texture and prevents excess moisture from affecting the frying process.
What type of oil is best for frying clams?
For frying, oils with a high smoke point, such as vegetable oil, canola oil, or peanut oil, are ideal. They help achieve a crispy exterior without burning. Crisco shortening is also a great choice for traditional flavor.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Absolutely! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend and the cracker meal with gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed rice crackers. This way, you can still enjoy delicious fried clams without gluten.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).